Downturned eyes are beautiful, often associated with icons like Marilyn Monroe and Anne Hathaway. They have a natural downward tilt at the outer corners, which can sometimes make the eyes appear tired or sad. The right makeup techniques, however, can create a lifted, more awake look.
If you have downturned eyes, you might have struggled with eyeliner that seems to drag your eyes down or eyeshadow that closes them off. You’re not alone. Many makeup tutorials are designed for almond or upturned eyes, leaving those with downturned shapes feeling a bit lost.
This guide is specifically for you. We’ll cover everything from the perfect eyeliner wing to brow shaping tricks that give an instant lift. You’ll learn how to enhance your natural eye shape, play up your best features, and apply makeup with confidence. Get ready to master the art of eye makeup for downturned eyes and make your gaze pop.
Eyeliner Techniques for an Upward Lift
Eyeliner is one of the most powerful tools for reshaping the eye. For downturned eyes, the goal is to draw the eye upward and outward, counteracting the natural droop.
The Right Wing Shape
The classic winged eyeliner can be tricky for downturned eyes. If the wing follows the natural downward curve of your lash line, it will only accentuate the droop. Instead, you need to create an illusion of lift.
Start your eyeliner from the middle of your upper lash line, keeping the line thin. As you approach the outer corner, imagine a line extending from your lower lash line upward toward the tail of your eyebrow. This is the angle your wing should follow. Draw a short, upward flick along this imaginary line. Then, connect the tip of the wing back to your lash line, creating a small, lifted triangle. Avoid extending the liner all the way to the inner corner, as this can make the eyes look smaller.
Tightlining for Definition
Tightlining, or applying liner to the upper waterline, is a fantastic technique for defining the eyes without weighing them down. It makes your lash base appear thicker and fuller, giving your eyes definition from the top. Use a waterproof pencil or gel liner and gently press the product into the base of your upper lashes. This simple step adds intensity without the heaviness of a thick line on your lid.
Mascara and Lashes for an Upward Effect
The right mascara and lash application can work wonders to open up and lift downturned eyes. It’s all about creating an upward curl and focusing volume in the right places.
Curling and Mascara Placement
Always start by curling your eyelashes. A good curl instantly opens up the eyes. Focus the curler at the base of your lashes and hold for a few seconds, then move it to the middle of the lashes and curl again.
When applying mascara, concentrate the product on the center and outer lashes of your upper lash line. Wiggle the wand at the roots to build volume, then sweep it upward and slightly outward. This helps to pull the focus up and away from the downturned corners. Avoid applying heavy coats of mascara to your lower lashes, as this can draw the eye downward and create shadows. A light, single coat is more than enough.
Best False Lash Styles
If you love false lashes, choose styles that are wispy and have a flared, cat-eye shape. These lashes are shorter in the inner corner and gradually get longer toward the outer edge. This design provides an immediate lift to the outer corners. You can also use individual lashes, concentrating them on the outer third of your eye to create a custom lift.
Brow Shaping for Lifted Eyes
Your eyebrows frame your eyes, and the right shape can provide a surprising amount of lift. A well-defined arch acts like a mini facelift.
The Subtle “Micro-Arch”
You don’t need a dramatic, high arch to get a lifting effect. Instead, focus on creating a subtle, clean arch. The peak of your arch should align with the outer edge of your iris. By keeping the tail of the brow lifted and not extending it too far downward, you create a more open and elevated look. Avoid creating brows that are too low or heavy, as this can visually press down on the eyes.
Highlighting Under the Brow
A touch of highlighter applied directly under the arch of your brow can enhance the lifting effect. Use a matte cream or a subtle shimmer powder to catch the light and create the illusion of more space between your brow and your eye. This simple trick makes the entire eye area appear brighter and more lifted.
Under-Eye Makeup That Lifts
What you do under your eyes is just as important as what you do on top. The goal is to brighten the area and avoid anything that pulls the eye down.
Strategic Brightening
Instead of applying concealer in a large triangle, focus on brightening the outer corner of your under-eye area. Apply a small amount of concealer in an upward diagonal line from the outer corner of your eye toward your temple. Blending this in will create a subtle lift.
Keep it Light
Heavy eyeshadow or eyeliner on the lower lash line is a common mistake that can emphasize a downturned shape. If you want definition, use a soft brown shadow and apply it only to the outer third of your lower lash line, smudging it slightly upward to connect with your top liner. Using a nude or white eyeliner on your lower waterline is another great trick to make your eyes look bigger and more awake.
Step-by-Step Lifted Eye Makeup Look
Here’s a simple routine to put these techniques into practice:
- Prep: Apply an eyeshadow primer to your lids to ensure your makeup lasts.
- Eyeshadow: Sweep a light, neutral matte shadow across your entire lid. Apply a slightly darker matte shade in the crease, focusing the color on the outer third and blending it upward and outward.
- Lift with Liner: Using a gel or liquid liner, draw a thin line from the middle of your upper lash line. Create a small, upward-angled wing at the outer corner.
- Curl and Coat: Curl your lashes and apply mascara, focusing on the center and outer lashes. Apply a single, light coat to the bottom lashes if desired.
- Define Brows: Fill in your brows, creating a clean arch. Apply a dab of highlighter just below the arch.
- Brighten Under-Eye: Apply a small amount of concealer to the outer under-eye area and blend it upward. Set with a light powder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest makeup mistake for downturned eyes?
The most common mistake is applying eyeliner that follows the natural downward slope of the eye. This emphasizes the droop. Always aim your liner upward toward the tail of your brow.
Can I wear a smoky eye with downturned eyes?
Yes! The key is to keep the darkness concentrated on the outer part of your upper lid and blend the color upward and outward. Avoid heavy, dark shadow on the lower lash line.
Should I wear eyeliner on my lower lash line?
It’s best to keep the lower lash line minimal. If you want definition, use a soft shadow on the outer third only. A nude liner on the waterline is a great option to open up the eyes.
Redefine Your Gaze
Mastering eye makeup for downturned eyes is all about understanding how to create uplifting illusions. By strategically placing liner, shadow, and mascara, you can beautifully enhance your natural shape and give your eyes a bright, awake appearance. Remember that these are guidelines, not rules. Feel free to experiment and find what makes you feel the most confident.
